When was the last time your car got a differential fluid change? If you’re not sure, it might be time to check in with a professional and find out if you’re overdue. Topping off your fluids and keeping on top of your car’s fluid change schedule is one of the best ways to protect the overall health of your vehicle.
Keep reading below to find out more about why a differential fluid exchange is important for your car.
Differential fluid is an important lubricant for your vehicle. It is also referred to as “gear oil” because it lubricates your car’s differential, which is made up of gears, bearings, and the clutch. Essentially, your differential is the part of your engine that allows your car to turn, and differential oil is what keeps that system lubricated and running smoothly.
In appearance, differential fluid looks like a thicker version of engine oil. It is typically about 80 weight, as compared to the lighter weights that are common among engine oils. Differential fluid comes in both synthetic and non-synthetic varieties.
The location of the differential fluid system and the kind of oil that it requires varies between front-wheel, rear-wheel, and all-wheel drive vehicles.